Norfolk police and fire-rescue crews responded to the 3200 block of Vimy Ridge Avenue around 8:30 p.m. for a residential fire, according to Battalion Chief Julian Williamson with Norfolk Fire-Rescue. The fire was contained to a kitchen.

When the fire was extinguished, crews found materials that could be used to cook meth, according to Officer Daniel Hudson with Norfolk Police. Narcotics investigators responded to look at the materials.

Photo by WAVY/LaVoy Harrell

“It’s not often that you go to a house fire and you discover a meth lab,” Williamson said. “So the guys did a great job erring on the side of caution and getting the necessary resources out here for this.”

Around 8 a.m. Tuesday, fire officials told WAVY News’ Deanna LeBlanc a meth lab was indeed confirmed in the home and charges were pending.

Just after noon, Hudson said 41-year-old Anton Arnez Godley, who lives at the home, was arrested and charged with possession of two or more substances with the intent to manufacture methamphetamines and possession of marijuana.

Williamson said an arson investigator was called to the scene to determine the cause of the fire.He added, investigators believe a small explosion started the fire, but evidence is still being gathered.

Neighbors tell WAVY.com a woman lives at the home on Vimy Ridge Avenue and Godley is often there. It’s unclear what his relationship is with the woman.

Many on the street were also concerned about their children being so close to a meth lab.

“I have my two baby girls in the house,” said Michael Turner, who lives nearby. “And that’s kind of scary to think that something like that has been going on around here.”

Williamson said Norfolk police and firefighters recently took part in training related to meth labs. He said that training helped firefighters make the discovery Monday night.